Football returns to Theofilos Field on Friday, Sep. 5 when Benjamin takes on Clearwater Academy in a much-anticipated home-opener against a new cross-state opponent. The team hopes to continue its quest for a perfect season following a convincing defeat of John Carroll in the first week of the season. 

Coach Kresser feels the game will be a tough one for his thriving Buccaneer squad.

“They’re a good overall team and they’re big upfront with a lot of athletes that touch the ball. They are ranked higher than us with a tough schedule so far, so we have to be on point with limited mistakes.”

When asked to identify some key players to watch, Coach Kresser was quick to respond: “We have athletes on our side of the ball including Chauncey Bowens and Jayden Vega who touch the ball more than anyone else. Joshua Luiz is one of our newer starters on the team at free safety which is a bigger role for him.”

On the other side of the field, Clearwater comes to Palm Beach Gardens still looking for its first victory following three close losses to Homestead, Columbus,  and Edgewater.

Despite their record, Clearwater enters the matchup ranked #11 in the state, while Benjamin is currently ranked #41 by MaxPrep. A victory by either squad should have a big impact on next week’s standings. 

Sophomore Tatum Little plans to go to the first home game of the season with a ton of school spirit.

“I am looking forward to Friday’s game because I feel like I have a bigger impact on the student section this year because I am not a freshman anymore. The games are always fun and the team seems to be really good this year so it will be a good game,” mentions Little.

Senior Grace Havlicek is a star on the volleyball court while bringing energy to the football games to cheer on her fellow classmates.

“It’s my senior year and I wanna just give everything I have to the school and all the other teams. I am really excited for the first home game and I hope everyone comes out to support in Neon” says Havlicek.

Freshman Matthew Null will be going to his first varsity football home game as a student at the Benjamin Upper School.

“I am excited for the game this Friday because the team is really good this year and I am able to be a part of the student section this year. I am going with a lot of my friends which will be really fun” adds Null.

The student section is looking to light up the field with their neon shirts, glasses, shorts, socks, shoes, and more. Everyone should come out to support and cheer on the Varsity Football team.